Novak Djokovic became extremely animated and frustrated during his historic Australian Open final victory, which drew criticism towards the Australian crowd that appeared to be overzealous at times. Djokovic came out roaring against the World No.4 on Rod Laver Arena, which carried the atmosphere of a football match.
The Serb was relentless in the first set having reduced Stefanos Tsitsipas to just one forehand winner in the first set, which he won 6-3. However, Tsitsipas let go of his nerves and stepped it up a level to stay in the set.
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The crowd rallied behind Tsitsipas, which appeared to perturb Djokovic throughout the set. Djokokvic also took a nasty tumble during one of Tsitsipas’ service games.
After winning a game, Djokovic appeared to go back-and-forth with his coach in frustration. Djokovic faced set point at 5-4 and the crowd became animated.
Djokovic stepped back and took his time while the chair umpire called for the crowd to calm down. The Serbian held the game and again appeared frustrated at the raucous crowd willing Tsitsipas on to level the match.
Many viewers watching became frustrated at the vociferous crowd, who continually barracked – maybe sometimes over the top – against Djokovic when in a tight service game. The tennis world reacted to Djokovic’s frustration, but also called out the crowd for disturbing the match at critical moments.
Despite the drama, the Serbian going on to win a tiebreak and take a 6-3, 7-6 lead in the match Following the set, Djokovic opted to take a break. This could have been due to the fall, which saw him go over on his ankle reaching for a shot.
However, it didn’t stop Djokovic from taking his game to the next level and winning his 22nd grand slam title to draw level with Rafa Nadal. The victory also means he regains the World No.1 ranking.
Novak Djokovic’s father absent at Aus Open final
Djokovic’s father opted not to attend the Australian Open final, despite tournament boss Craig Tiley earlier announcing he would be free to attend Rod Laver Arena. Djokovic’s father, Srdjan, was captured posing with pro-Russia spectators on Wednesday night following his son’s quarter-final victory on Rod Laver Arena, which sparked enormous controversy.
Following the drama, Srdjan opted not to attend the semi-final on Friday to stay from the controversy that he unwittingly stirred up. But in what was sure to be a controversial move, Tiley revealed Djokovic’s father was free to take his place at Rod Laver Arena after accepting the Serb had inadvertently been swept up in the flags drama.
However, Srdjan obviously decided to stay away from the spotlight to give his son the moment as he equalled Nadal’s grand slam tally.
with AAP
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